MARYVILLE, Mo. – The U.S. Senate bestowed another honor on Northwest Missouri State University’s 2016-2017 football and men’s basketball teams on May 3 by unanimously passing a resolution commending the Bearcats on their NCAA Division II national championship victories.

The Bearcat football team defeated the University of North Alabama, 29-3, on Dec. 17 to win its sixth NCAA Division II national championship, and the men’s basketball team beat Fairmont State (W.Va.) on March 25 to win its first national title. The two victories made Northwest the first Division II institution to win national championships in those sports during the same academic year.

As a result, U.S. Senators Roy Blunt and Claire McCaskill introduced the resolution honoring Northwest.

“Missourians couldn’t be more proud of the Bearcats’ historic and record-setting year, which undoubtedly cements the university’s reputation as a college sports powerhouse,” Blunt said. “I wish the Bearcats the best as they spend the off-season preparing to defend their hard fought championship titles.”

McCaskill added, “The Bearcats made NCAA history with their championship seasons in not one but two sports in the same year — winning titles in men’s football and basketball and showcasing the incredible talent and grit of Northwest Missouri State’s athletic programs. With a combined winning record of 50-1, the student-athletes of these two teams have clinched a coveted place in Missouri and national college sports history.”

Click here to read the resolution passed by the U.S. Senate.

The teams also were recognized April 18 at the Missouri capitol with resolutions sponsored by Sen. Dan Hegeman and Rep. Allen Andrews as well as a proclamation issued by Gov. Eric Greitens.